GM Food in India: Are we ready for it?

Abstract

India’s approval of the first Genetically Modified Food Crop (GMFC), GM Mustard brought about this biotechnological product back in news. Issues pertaining to ecological impact, biosafety, economic benefits and labelling of these crops have been debated continuously at national and global level from past two decades. Yet there is no clarity on their efficacy, benefits or even harmful impacts. This paper is in direction to clear the controversies surrounding GM crops in context with the Indian agricultural set up. The readiness of the country to adopt and use these crops has been studied on 3 indices; Biosafety Readiness Level Regulatory Readiness Level and Social Readiness Level. The in-depth analysis highlighted the preparedness of the agricultural system legislative set up as well as consumer acceptance over these crops. Asymmetrical research database, regulatory lacunae and dubious perception of the society was reported at all the three levels of readiness. Therefore, the study recommends reforms in the agricultural system, in the regulatory policy and science communication policy of GMFCs so that this innovation of biotechnology can be used for the betterment of mankind.